A CodeNEXT forum in Northwest Austin on Monday highlighted resident concerns regarding the direction of CodeNEXT and questions about the wisdom behind some of the project’s proposed changes. Dozens of residents from all over Austin converged at Anderson High School on Monday night for one of the final open forums on CodeNEXT—the ongoing rewrite of the city’s land development code that began in 2013. The city released the second draft Sept. 15, and public comment on that draft wraps up Tuesday, Oct. 31. After a brief presentation by city staff, residents raised questions ranging from broad inquiries on whether the project was accomplishing its original goal, to more specific concerns regarding lot size and parking. Below are a few of the questions asked by residents on Monday night. How does CodeNEXT address the goals of Imagine Austin—the city’s 30-year comprehensive plan—especially in becoming more compact and connected? Greg Guernsey, director of the city’s planning department, said the city’s current code is built around the automobile. CodeNEXT looks to change the city’s reliance on the automobile by placing residential development along the city’s transit corridors. Guernsey said “compact and connected” refers to providing more services for residents within and near their neighborhoods. If my existing property violates the new code, will I have to update my property to meet new requirements? No, Guernsey said. Existing properties are grandfathered into the new code. However, he said if there is a health and safety concern or the property owner wants to redevelop, then the city will enforce the new code. My neighborhood has no sidewalks, so I usually walk in the street. New required parking minimums will encourage more on-street parking. Where should I walk? CodeNEXT proposes the minimum number of parking spaces required per residential units be dropped from two to one. Residents have expressed safety concerns regarding the likely increase in street parking.Jerry Rusthoven, assistant director of the city’s planning department, said the new code will not force sidewalks to be built. Rusthoven said city staff understands the concern but said the change is a “balancing act” and think the benefits of the new parking requirements outweigh pitfalls.